SEARCY — Following a strong 2025 campaign that culminated in a Great American Conference tournament semifinal appearance, the Harding Lady Bisons volleyball team returns to the court with a retooled roster and a challenging early-season schedule.

Head coach Meredith Fear enters the 2026 season leaning on a core of experienced returners to guide the Lady Bisons. The offense will be anchored by setter Olivia Wiedower, a returning All-GAC first-team selection. Joining Wiedower as a primary attacking option is junior outside hitter Ella Drake, who earned All-GAC honorable mention honors following a breakout 2025 season.

Offensive threats Josie Bishop and Philomina Klotz are also back in the fold for Harding, looking to help fill the void left by graduated senior Jacey Lambert, an All-GAC second-team selection who helped power the Lady Bisons to 22 regular-season victories a year ago.

Before the Lady Bisons begin conference play, they will face a rigorous test on the road. Harding opens the season in St. Louis, Missouri, at the McKendree Tournament from Aug. 27-29, where they will match up against McKendree, Maryville, Montevallo and Northwest Missouri State.

The road trip continues the following weekend at the Alabama-Huntsville Tournament in Huntsville, Alabama. From Sept. 3-5, Harding will test its mettle against host Alabama Huntsville, Trevecca Nazarene, Auburn Montgomery and Spring Hill.

Following the back-to-back road tournaments, the Lady Bisons make their 2026 home debut at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House, hosting the Harding Tournament beginning Sept. 10 against Southwest Baptist. Harding officially opens GAC action against Ouachita Baptist on Sept. 15.